The highly anticipated potential showdown between the Bellingham brothers at the FIFA Club World Cup has been disrupted, with Jobe Bellingham suspended for Borussia Dortmund's quarter-final clash against Jude Bellingham's Real Madrid.
Jobe received his second yellow card of the tournament during Dortmund's 2-1 victory over CF Monterrey in the round of 16. This suspension prevents him from facing his brother Jude in a competitive fixture for the first time. The yellow card was issued after a late tackle on Monterrey's Nelson Deossa in the 28th minute. Jobe had previously received a yellow card in the group stage match against Ulsan HD.
Dortmund's Sporting Director, Sebastian Kehl, expressed his disappointment, stating it was "very annoying for him, for all of us". He further added, "That's the story we wanted to write," and acknowledged how "very, very bitter" this is for Jobe, who was eagerly anticipating playing against his brother. Kehl emphasized the need to "comfort him a little".
Coach Niko Kovac echoed Kehl's sentiments, noting Jobe's disappointment and his apparent unawareness that the second yellow card would result in an immediate suspension. Despite the setback, Kovac suggested there would be "plenty of time" for the brothers to clash in the future.
Jobe Bellingham had quickly established himself as a regular starter for Borussia Dortmund since his arrival in early June. He started every game after his debut in the first group match against Fluminense.
The potential Bellingham brother face-off had generated considerable excitement, particularly after a playful exchange between the siblings following their respective goals earlier in the tournament. After Jobe scored his first goal for Dortmund in their 4-3 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns, Jude responded with a goal in Real Madrid's 3-1 win over Pachuca. Jude jokingly mentioned the pressure he felt after Jobe's goal, stating, "Everyone's been caning me, saying he's better than me. I had to do something today. We're 1-1 now, we'll see for the rest of the tournament (laughs)".
Despite Jobe's suspension, Jude and Real Madrid will continue their Club World Cup campaign.
